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Nevada Road Trips

Take to the Open Road in Nevada

Nevada is home to one of the world’s most renowned cities, yet it would be mistaken to allow the dazzling spectacle of Las Vegas to overshadow the abundance of Nevada’s offerings beyond its main city. 

 

Thankfully, ten themed road trip itineraries have been thoughtfully crafted to facilitate discovery of the quirky history and wondrous landscapes that extend well beyond Las Vegas into the Silver State. 

 

 

1. Neon to Nature 

This three-pronged package is the perfect road trip warm up, providing a day's respite from the hustle of Las Vegas. All within easy driving distance of Nevada’s capital, world-famous Hoover Dam, Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire provide ample exploration opportunities, all before ensuring you're back in time for evening plans in Las Vegas.


2.Burner Byway

Visitors can embark on a journey along the art-adorned path that Burners traverse during their annual pilgrimage to Burning Man, the most vibrant arts event on the planet. Beyond the festival, the essence of Burning Man lingers throughout northwestern Nevada and is demonstrated by the Burner Byway which can be travelled at any time of year to experience Nevada's DIY spirit, vast landscapes, adventurous attitude, and unmatched freedom, from Reno to Gerlach and beyond.


3.Cowboy Corridor 

Nevada's Cowboy Corridor teems with Western heritage, offering more than just a speedy trip along I-80. Slow down in the lively towns along the way to uncover rich history, vibrant culture, and contemporary attractions, celebrating the unique blend of cowboy, Basque, and American Indian traditions that define the Silver State.

 

 

4.Death Valley Rally

Tourists embark on an extreme road trip from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park, where visitors will encounter stark contrasts, from the lowest point in North America to towering peaks, rugged biker bars to elegant wineries, and sprawling sand dunes to ancient bristlecone pines, all within a stone's throw along the same route.

 

5.Extraterrestrial Highway

Alien Country, where rumours of alien spacecraft and top-secret technology abound. Visitors can pilot their vessels through this otherworldly wilderness, explore extraterrestrial landmarks, and meet friendly locals who call these odd locales home.

 

6.Free Range Art Highway

Experience the real-world wackiness along US-95, where psychedelic free-range art meets the American West. From kaleidoscopic boulder towers to post-Playa Burning Man sculptures, this route offers a 500-mile journey through funky-flavoured towns and intriguing art installations, making it a must for any road trip enthusiast.

 

7.  Lake Tahoe Loop

Lake Tahoe, aptly named the "Jewel of the Sierra Nevada," is surrounded by majestic peaks and offers year-round beauty: encompassing both a summertime paradise and a winter wonderland. Yet, just over the hill lie Reno, Carson City and western Virginia City, encapsulating some of Nevada’s most intriguing destinations, iconic history, and best-kept secrets.

 


8.Loneliest Road in America

Once dubbed the "Loneliest Road in America" by Life magazine in July 1986, Nevada's Highway 50 now serves as a gateway to ghost towns, historic mining communities, stunning state parks, and authentic Sagebrush Saloons, offering unparalleled recreational opportunities for adventurous travellers. 


9.  Rubies Route

With Elko as a base, explore Nevada's northeastern corner, venturing to scenic treasures like glacier-carved Lamoille Canyon, wildlife havens such as Angel Lake and Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, and the remote frontier town of Jarbidge. With towering peaks, alpine lakes, and vast valleys, this landscape offers boundless recreational opportunities and breathtaking views.


10.  Great Basin Highway

Nevada's stunning scenery and natural wonders line the 355-mile Great Basin Highway, from Las Vegas to Ely to Great Basin National Park. Red rock spires, sandstone canyons, ancient bristlecone pine forests, and star-studded skies, make up the larger-than-life landscapes of Valley of Fire State Park and Cathedral Gorge State Park.

 
Posted on: 09/05/2024

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